El Pollo Loco grilled chicken

El Pollo Loco, which translates to 'The Crazy Chicken,' is a renowned restaurant chain specializing in Mexican-style flame-grilled chicken. The brand was originally founded by Juan Francisco Ochoa in Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico, in 1975. After achieving significant success in Mexico, the brand expanded into the United States, opening its first American location in Los Angeles, California, in 1980.

Over the years, the ownership of the brand diverged between the two countries. The Mexican operations remain under the control of the founding family and their affiliates, while the U.S.-based entity, El Pollo Loco, Inc., underwent several corporate changes. It was eventually acquired by various private equity firms and went public in 2014. Today, El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc. serves as the ultimate owner of the American franchise, headquartered in Costa Mesa, California. The chain is celebrated for its unique positioning that bridges the gap between quick-service and fast-casual dining, emphasizing fresh ingredients and traditional citrus-marinated grilling techniques.